David Matchulat
OBITUARY
David Matchulat, of Daleville, passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026, after suffering an accident at his home. He was 70 years old, and he was at peace, surrounded by his family and friends.
David was born in Scranton to the late Betty and August Matchulat, and lived his whole life in Daleville. He was a graduate of North Pocono High School, where he was also a successful weightlifter during his student years.
Perhaps most notably, David will be remembered as an exceptional guitar player and musician, matched by few. Music was his greatest passion. Over the course of his musical career he played in numerous bands: Ocean, Jump, the J. Miles Band, Heartbreaker, and others, all widely known throughout the tri-state area. Anyone who spent time in the local music scene undoubtedly crossed paths with David at some point, for even after his own playing days wound down, he could often be found working as a sound technician for local shows. His love of music carried into the next generation of his family, many of whom went on to play music themselves and still listen to the artists he first introduced them to when they were young.
David took great pride in his home. He loved to landscape, and everyone in the neighborhood knew his yard would be kept immaculate. In the summertime, he loved hosting barbecues there for the people closest to him, and his community greatly looked forward to the days when he’d make his famous pizza. He was also a devoted dog lover, a daily crossword puzzler, and a lifelong New York Yankees fan.
David is survived by his brother, Jamie Matchulat, and his wife Linda, of Spring Brook Township; his sister Cindy Kanc and her husband Bob, of Newville; and his sister Betsy Freeman, of Scranton. He is also survived by his nephew, Cory Matchulat, of Austin, Texas; and his nieces, Valerie Kanc Day, of Newville, Kristen Pipitone, of Kingsley and a half sister, Luann Matchulat of Moscow, who will all miss him dearly.
Those who knew David will remember his quick wit and his unique brand of humor. Plenty of people talk about being true to themselves; David simply was, every day of his life. He was always his own man, a truly singular character, and the people closest to him know they will never meet anyone quite like him again.
Visitation will be held at Brian Arthur Strauch Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, LLC, 3 First Street, Spring Brook Township, PA 18444, on Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with a memorial service to begin at 1:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, 967 Griffin Pond Road, Clarks Summit, PA 18411. To share your fondest memories of David, please visit the funeral home’s website or Facebook page.
David Matchulat
August 1, 2026